Ten Just Stop Oil activists were charged with conspiring to disrupt operations at Heathrow Airport, following their arrests in a coordinated police operation on Wednesday, July 24. The group faced charges at Westminster Magistrates’ Court under Section 7 of the Public Order Act 2003, accused of conspiracy to interfere with key national infrastructure.
The individuals, arrested either directly at Heathrow or nearby, were part of what police described as an intelligence-led operation aimed at preventing disruptions at the UK’s largest airport.
The court remanded eight of the activists in custody:
- Sally Davidson, 36, of Easton Street, Portland
- Adam Beard, 55, of Stanton Road, Stroud
- Rosa Hicks, 28, of Buxton Road, Stratford
- Rory Wilson, 26, of Lipton Road, Tower Hamlets
- Luke Elson, 31, of Buxton Road, Stratford
- Luke Watson, 34, of The Street, Manuden
- Sean O’Callaghan, 29, of Old London Road, Mickleham
- Hannah Schafer, 60, of Tanygroes, Ceredigion
Additionally, two activists were granted bail with strict conditions, including a stipulation that they not come within 1km of any airport unless holding a valid travel ticket. Those bailed are:
- Julia Mercer, 74, of Beaumont Street, Calderdale
- William Goldring, 27, of Rye Lane, Southwark
The case highlights ongoing tensions between environmental activists and authorities as disruptions at major transportation hubs like Heathrow pose significant security and operational challenges. The accused are expected to face further legal proceedings as the case develops.